The other writers are correct that there were American-made combos in
the past. I think that it has always been a challenge to mix the the
two functions, keeping the water in all the right places during wash,
but free to move air during dry.

Negatives to look at concerning the new combos are higher initial cost,
longer laundry processing times, a more complicated repair profile over
the life of the machine, and a less extensive repair network. That
last one is the clincher. Anytime you own a highly exotic piece of
machinery, you are limiting your repair options somewhat to fewer
technicians who have had more specialized training and have access to
proprietary information. Even with a maintenance agreement, your costs
for this or paying for repairs individually is going to raise your
overall operating expense to a level far beyond simpler machines.

Here is a different way to look at it: If you buy a new Toyota Prius,
you aren't going to be able to take it to your neighborhood garage
because the repair methods and proprietary information has not filtered
down to the average mechanic yet. You will be pretty much locked into
taking it to the dealership for your entire time of ownership of the
vehicle. Pity the consumer that buys one of these out of warranty; he
is asking for an empty wallet.